PEOPLE in Radcliffe are being offered the chance to shape the future of their community under a radical regeneration project.

Council chiefs and residents will discuss options for the development of the East Lancashire Paper Mill site in Church Street East.

The mill closed last year with the loss of 200 jobs. Now councillors say the site's regeneration could provide a major boost to Radcliffe's economy.

The plan could also benefit the town's trade, tourism and leisure industries.

Council chiefs say the riverside development could be a mix of housing and leisure facilities. Employment could also be boosted.

The development comes under a major drive to plot the town's future -- the Radcliffe Regeneration Plan.

Bury Council's executive member for economic and social regeneration, Councillor Wayne Campbell, said: "The loss of the mill was a real blow to the town. It further weakened the once-strong links that Radcliffe had with manufacturing.

"We believe that, as a council, we have a real part to play in the future and especially as to how this site is now developed. We want to be pro-active."

Discussions have taken place with the new site owners, DS Smith.

Public consultation will begin next Monday at Radcliffe's Area Forum, to be held at Radcliffe Civic Hall from 7pm.

The Radcliffe Regeneration Plan will also be discussed at the meeting.

All are invited to attend to raise issues or ask questions. For more details, contact 0161 253 5107.